Confusing visual signals can trigger vertigo attacks, for example when you are sitting still on a train, but you can see movement through the window or if you try to move around in the dark without any visual cues to help you balance.

Yes, it is entirely possible to experience vertigo or motion sickness while traveling on a train, although it is less common than in cars or on boats. Train-induced vertigo usually occurs due to a sensory conflict where your inner ear senses the vibration and movement of the train, but your eyes—if focused on a stationary object inside the carriage like a book or phone—signal to the brain that you are sitting still. This disconnect can lead to dizziness, nausea, and a spinning sensation. High-speed trains, like the Shinkansen or Eurostar, can also trigger a "visual vertigo" effect when the scenery outside flashes by at extreme speeds, making it difficult for the brain to process the rapid motion. Furthermore, some individuals experience "Mal de Debarquement" after a long train journey, where they feel like they are still swaying even after they have stepped onto solid ground. To prevent this, experts recommend sitting in a forward-facing seat, looking out the window at the distant horizon rather than the nearby tracks, and avoiding reading or using electronic devices during the journey. If you are prone to severe vertigo, choosing a seat in the middle of the train where the swaying is minimized can also help significantly.